We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Mary Haberski. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Mary below.
Mary, appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.
The first time I took a major risk, my heart was a flame, and my dreams were the fuel that powered my journey. I left the comforts of my life in Chicago, including a stable job, cherished friends, and a beautiful apartment nestled in the city’s heart. But within me, a burning desire for a deeper purpose and a yearning for something more significant were calling out. It was yoga, my lifelong passion, whispering its call, beckoning me to a new chapter.
The story behind this risk is a tapestry of self-discovery and a relentless ambition to share the profound transformation that yoga can bring. I had spent countless hours on my mat, delving into its depths, and I knew that teaching was my true calling. Yet, stepping away from the security and familiarity of my life in Chicago was no easy decision. It meant bidding farewell to friends, surrendering my job, and divesting myself of most of my possessions. When I arrived in Los Angeles, I carried with me just 11 boxes of belongings, a testament to the fresh start I was embracing.
Settling into the City of Angels, the risk I had taken started paying dividends. In a few short months, I embarked on a journey to India, living in an ashram where showers meant using the same bucket I washed my clothes in. It was far from luxurious, but it was profoundly transformational.
Upon returning to Los Angeles, I made a pivotal decision. No longer content to work for someone else, I launched my entrepreneurial journey in the spiritual domain back in 2013. I immersed myself in the vibrant yoga community, connecting with like-minded souls and gradually cultivating a devoted following of students. There were many struggles and moments of doubt, but the joy I derived from sharing my passion and guiding others towards the benefits of yoga was a reward beyond measure.
My success was soaring, but another turning point awaited. This time, I embarked on an even grander risk, leaving behind Los Angeles for the enchanting landscapes of Mexico. It was a solitary journey, leaving behind friends and loved ones to embrace a new country’s unfamiliar embrace. The motivation was twofold: personal growth and a desire to step away from a culturescape that no longer resonated with my soul. The backdrop of rising crime and violence had stolen my sense of safety, and I yearned for a life less constrained, less polarized, and more intentional.
Parting from Los Angeles wasn’t simple; I had nurtured a large, thriving spiritual community and formed deep connections. But I understood that staying in one place wouldn’t enable the continual growth and evolution that beckoned me. So, once more, I packed my bags, shared or surrendered my belongings, and embarked on a voyage to Mexico, arriving with no friends and family to greet me, and nothing more than a suitcase, a carry-on, and two surfboards. I left it all behind so I could gain it all.
This time, the risk was even more daunting. A foreign land where I didn’t speak the language fluently awaited, and I had to build a new community from scratch. Nevertheless, this venture turned into one of the most enriching experiences of my life. Mexico opened its arms, and ( after some time spent in depression and burnout) I formed connections with both locals and fellow expats who shared my passion for spiritual and personal growth. The country’s beauty and the serenity of my new surroundings deepened my spiritual practice to a level I had never imagined. None of this was easy but it has been fully worth every dark moment.
In hindsight, both of these risks were life-altering and transformative. They allowed me to follow my heart, discover new dimensions of my being, and live a life in harmony with my true purpose. Yes, there were moments of uncertainty, loneliness, and discomfort along the way, but the rewards in personal growth, fulfillment, and a profound connection with myself and spirituality were beyond measure. These risks taught me that the most rewarding paths in life often require us to relinquish the familiar and embrace the unknown. In those uncharted territories, we find the magic of transformation and the infinite possibilities of our dreams.
Mary, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
For those who I have yet had the pleasure of crossing paths with, allow me to paint a vivid introduction. I am a boundlessly passionate, spiritual entrepreneur, eternally committed to kindling the flames of transformation in the lives of others, igniting their spiritual paths towards profound personal and professional growth. My journey, one of profound metamorphosis, has weaved through the landscapes of holistic wellness and spirituality, transforming me into a speaker, a master tarot reader, a spiritual coach for personal and business development, and a seasoned teacher in the sacred arts of yoga, meditation, and breathwork.
This odyssey into my diverse array of disciplines began as a personal quest for self-discovery and an unwavering desire to unlock the boundless potential residing within each of us. I’ve dedicated years of my life, tirelessly refining my skills and expertise to offer a kaleidoscope of services that breathe life into the realms of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. My journey has been more than a mere calling; it’s been a fervent obsession, an unyielding commitment to all things health, wellness, fitness, and spirituality and serving 1,000,000. I’ve chosen this path, and I’ve never looked back.
As a master tarot reader, I am the custodian of a unique gift, a clairvoyance that allows me to uncover profound insights and guidance through the ancient and mystical art of tarot. My readings are not just divinations; they are portals to clarity, directional beacons, and gateways to deeper comprehension of life’s intricate tapestry. I use the tarot as a mirror for self-reflection and empowerment, guiding individuals through the labyrinth of life’s challenges and opportunities.
In the sphere of spiritual coaching, I stand as a beacon for those who have invested in themselves, both personally and in their businesses. I weave a tapestry of wisdom drawn from the wisdom of my experiences to help individuals harmonize their inner selves with their external aspirations. Finding one’s purpose, nurturing leadership prowess, and crafting a harmonious work-life equilibrium are within reach, as I tailor guidance to nurture holistic growth and triumph. For those who are not yet ready for the one-on-one investment, I have crafted a coaching course that’s ripe for exploration.
My mastery extends to the practices of yoga, meditation, and breathwork. As a master teacher, my canvas is broad, welcoming individuals of all levels. In the sanctuary of my yoga classes, we embark on a journey that embraces both the physical and the spiritual dimensions of this ancient practice. Through meditation, I guide seekers towards the sanctuary of mindfulness, where stress dissipates, and inner peace blooms. The transformative power of breathwork, a teaching close to my heart, empowers individuals to harness the breath’s magical might for their well-being, a skill honed in one-on-one settings, retreats, corporate spaces, and the digital realm.
At the core of my mission is the quest to conquer modern life’s relentless challenges—stress, disconnection, and the obstacles of personal growth. Through my services and teachings, I provide a treasure trove of practical tools and techniques that act as lifelines for individuals seeking to reconnect with their core, manage stress, and infuse mindfulness into their daily lives. My work is an elegant dance, a bridge that unites the scientific and the spiritual, closing the gap between the two worlds.
What sets me apart in this vibrant field is my unwavering devotion, my obsession for unceasing growth, and my tireless passion for holistic wellness and spiritual transformation. I bring to the table not just authenticity, but a profound commitment to shepherding my clients and students on their journeys of self-discovery, autonomy, and metamorphosis.
My proudest moments arrive in the form of transformed lives, testimonies to the indomitable spirit of the human soul. My clients and students hail from every walk of life, spanning the spectrum from children in orphanages to the glittering world of celebrities and high-profile individuals. The knowledge that I’ve played an integral part in their personal and professional growth infuses me with boundless fulfillment. I draw inspiration from the human spirit’s unwavering tenacity and the boundless potential residing within the miraculous human body.
To prospective clients, followers, and enthusiasts, I extend a heartfelt invitation to delve into my work. It encompasses more than just tarot readings, speaking, or spiritual coaching—it’s a holistic journey towards health, personal growth, and the keys to success. I invite all of you to join me on this transformative odyssey towards a life that’s more balanced, purposeful, and overflowing with joy.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
One of the most profound lessons etched into the story of my journey was the act of unlearning, the process of shedding the heavy cloak of victimhood. It was a transformation that liberated me from the belief that my very identity was woven from the threads of trauma and suffering – physical, emotional, mental, and even the scars of sexual abuse, self-harm, eating disorders, suicidal thoughts, the shadows of depression, anxiety’s weight, and the chains of addiction.
For years, these experiences cast a long shadow over my life, and I carried the immense weight of victimhood. It was as if I was shackled to the past, forever bound by the scars both visible and hidden. There were times when I wandered in a lonely darkness, believing I was merely a survivor, never realizing the potential to thrive.
But within the folds of this darkness, a turning point emerged. It arrived when I dared to reach out for help, embarking on a journey of healing and self-discovery. I delved into therapy, immersed myself in courses, sought solace in healing practices, explored the realms of plant medicine, practiced discipline, and gazed deeply into the pool of self-reflection. Through this arduous and sometimes painful process, I discovered that the past need not define me, nor should it dictate my future.
It was a slow transformation, but it was a liberating one. I found myself open to the continuous shedding of layers, for there’s no end to the depths of love, peace, and abundance one can experience. I learned that my story was not just a tale of survival; it was the epic saga of resilience, healing, growth, and ultimately, thriving.
The journey of unlearning was no stroll through the meadows. It was a steep climb, often laden with challenges. It required me to confront deeply ingrained beliefs, to shatter the chains of past thinking. It demanded self-compassion and the courage to face the pain I had long buried. It was a road that necessitated the support of peers, mentors, and professionals who could light the way.
Today, I stand before you as a living testament to the power of healing and personal transformation. I haven’t merely conquered my past traumas; I’ve harnessed them as sources of strength and empathy. I’ve woven my experiences into the fabric of my work as a spiritual coach, speaker, a master tarot reader, and a guide in the realms of yoga, meditation, and breathwork. With this wisdom, I strive to inspire and guide others along their own paths of recovery and self-discovery.
The lesson I had to unlearn was that I was forever destined to be a victim of circumstances, tethered to the tumultuous tides of stress hormones. The truth is, I’ve metamorphosed from survivor to thriver. My past, rather than defining me, informs my present and future. My story stands as an emblem of resilience and the boundless potential that resides within each of us.
Neither I nor you are prisoners of a victim mentality, bound by the shackles of life’s circumstances. There’s no challenge too great, no darkness too deep, that we cannot overcome. Our stories, like mine, can be a wellspring of inspiration, beckoning others to embark on their own journeys of growth, healing, and resounding success.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
The pivotal moment I want to share with you unfurled as I approached my 40th birthday, a milestone that would come to symbolize a profound shift in my journey. It was a time when I confronted a breaking point, a culmination of relentless work and an unyielding dedication to the service of others. For years, I had poured my heart and soul into both my work and my nonprofit 501c3 Daana Blue, an endeavor aimed at catalyzing positive change in our world. I had always placed the needs of others above my own, often at the cost of neglecting the delicate balance between work and life.
The backstory to this pivotal moment is one of unwavering commitment to prove to myself that I was enough by serving others. I was caught in a trap of trying to succeed and achieve my way out of trauma. My body had been sending me warning signals, manifested in a series of health issues that were directly tethered to my persistent burnout and unsustainable work practices. Anxiety had become an unwelcome constant companion during this period, despite my dedication to personal practices. It became glaringly clear that I couldn’t persist on this path without incurring serious consequences.
The turning point in this narrative arrived when I was confronted with a succession of health issues, I couldn’t ignore the instability any longer. It was my body, a wise sentinel, urging me to halt, to pause and reassess my life’s trajectory. I listened. I embraced profound rest and withdrew from the demands of my work. I came to a resounding realization that my relentless pursuit of helping others, while noble, was utterly unsustainable if I continued to neglect my own well-being.
This pivotal moment orchestrated a profound transformation in my mindset and priorities. I was faced with the irrefutable truth that I needed to pivot, not only in my career but in the very essence of my approach to life. It was high time that I accorded paramount importance to my well-being, to practice what I so ardently preached about self-care and balance.
I embarked on this transformative journey by meticulously reevaluating my work commitments and setting healthier boundaries. I discovered the art of saying no when necessary, prioritizing tasks that resonated with my values and well-being. I rekindled the art of deep rest, investing in the rejuvenating power of restoration. I indulged in the simple pleasures of socializing and selected workouts that nourished my body rather than draining it. I ventured into the embrace of nature, relishing long walks under the open tree lined sky.
The most profound lesson I harvested from this pivotal moment was the unshakable belief that self-care is not selfish; it is the cornerstone upon which effective service to others and a fulfilling life are built. Burnout and the neglect of personal well-being only served to dilute my capacity to catalyze positive change in the world. It became glaringly evident that my own well-being was equal in importance to the service I provided to others.
Today, I approach my work with a renewed sense of balance and an unwavering commitment to self-care. My passion for creating positive change in the lives of others remains fervent and unyielding, but it is now wrapped in a greater awareness of the significance of sustainable practices, placing myself first.
This pivot has wrought not only a transformation in my own life but has also fortified my capacity to serve others more effectively. I have emerged as a living testament, setting forth a healthier and more sustainable example for those I aspire to inspire and support. The journey continues, and I stand as living proof that we can lead with authenticity and unwavering commitment to our own well-being as we embark on the path to catalyzing change in the lives of others.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://maryhaberski.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yogasurflove/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maryhaberskishantikamalkaur
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryhaberski/
- Other: https://linktr.ee/mary_haberski